KUALA LUMPUR: Singer and songwriter Yasin Sulaiman hopes the new Education Minister will revise the history syllabus in secondary schools to encourage critical thinking amongst young Malaysians.
In a congratulatory message to the new minister Dr Maszlee Malik on Instagram yesterday, Yasin hailed him for recently suggesting that students be encouraged to think critically on an Astro Awani talk show.
"Our syllabus needs to encourage students to think, not regurgitate information, and that's particularly so with the history syllabus. Youths who are uncritical do not augur well for nation-building in the long run," said Yasin.
Yasin hailed Maszlee for suggesting that the lessons from Bollywood legend Amir Khan's iconic film "3 Idiots" would be incorporated into the education system to encourage students to think critically.
"Children's talents should be developed, and they should not be forced to abandon their innate skills. For instance, don't force a photography-inclined youngster to take up engineering," said Yasin.
"Lessons learnt in the classrooms should also be translated into day-to-day experiences. This will make school interesting, and youngsters will work harder in their studies."
Netizens fully supported Yasin's suggestion and expressed hope that Maszlee would "do the right thing".
"3 Idiots is a very inspirational movie. I am a lecturer and I encourage my students to watch it because it tells us the real meaning of studying, to apply knowledge in our daily lives. Well said Yasin and congrats Dr Maszlee," said Aqilah.
"Yes, that's the way. Teach them young to be thinkers, Dr Maszlee," said Esya.
"Finland teaches students like this. Well said, Yasin and all the best, Dr Maszlee," said Iqbal.
Dr Maszlee was appointed Education Minister by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad yesterday.